Honda S2000 2003 USDM Time Attack

The S2000 was introduced in 1999 for the 2000 model year and was given the chassis designation of "AP1". It features a front-mid engine rear-wheel-drive layout[11] with power delivered by a 1,997 cc (122 cu in) inline four-cylinder DOHC VTEC engine. The engine (codenamed F20C) generates power outputs of 177–184 kW (241–250 PS; 237–247 hp), and 208–218 N⋅m (153–161 lbf⋅ft) of torque depending on the target market.[12] The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission and Torsen limited-slip differential. The S2000 achieved what Honda claimed as the highest specific output of a normally aspirated production automobile engine in the world. The most powerful version; the JDM F20C was rated at 184 kW (250 PS; 247 hp) or 92 kW (125 PS; 123 hp) per litre as a result of a higher 11.7:1 compression ratio.

Honda S2000 (rear view)
Notable features include independent double wishbone suspension, electrically assisted steering and integrated roll hoops. The car had 16 in (41 cm) wheels with Bridgestone Potenza S-02 tyres equipped. The compact and lightweight engine, mounted entirely behind the front axle, allow the S2000 to achieve a 50:50 front/rear weight distribution and lower rotational inertia. The dashboard got similar design to late eighties-early nineties McLaren-Honda Formula-1 racing cars (MP4/5, MP4/6 and MP4/7), as a reference to the racing pedigree of high rev line and output Honda engines.[14][15] An electrically powered vinyl top with internal cloth lining and plastic rear window was standard, with an aluminum hardtop available as an optional extra (in 2001). Honda initially offered the S2000 in Berlina Black, New Formula Red, Grand Prix White, and Silverstone Metallic exterior colours in the US domestic market. On some other markets Monte Carlo Blue Pearl and Spa Yellow Pearl / Indy Yellow Pearl were also available from the beginning.

The 2001 model was largely unchanged; Honda added a digital clock to the radio display and made the rear wind blocker standard. Honda also added Spa Yellow exterior colour to the US domestic market lineup. For the 2002 model year, suspension settings were revised and the plastic rear window was replaced by a glass unit incorporating an electric defroster. Other updates included slightly revised tail lamps with chrome rings, an upgraded radio with separate tweeters, a leather-wrapped gearshift knob, leatherette console cover and a revised engine control unit. Honda added Suzuka Blue Metallic and Sebring Silver Metallic exterior colours to the US domestic market lineup.

The AP1 was manufactured until 2003 at Honda's Takanezawa plant, alongside the NSX and Insight hybrid.